lawmakers today anticipating a possible, a possible agreement regarding the fiscal cliff. no deal has been reached yet. senators today will technically be working on a praiseholder -- placeholder bill in the event there is a fiscal cliff agreement. until the deal's reached, we expect we'll hear discussion at least on the fiscal situation. take a look now live on the floor of the u.s. senate, and we'll bring it to you live here on c-span2. the presiding officer: the senate will come to order. the chaplain, dr. barry black, will lead the senate in prayer. the chaplain: let us pray. almighty god, we praise your name. you are high over all the nations and your glory is greater than the heavens. let your spirit move our lawmakers to do your will. teach them valuable lessons from hardships and adversities, as they work to be worthy of the sacrifices of those who have already given so much for freedom. lift them from the darkness of hopelessness so that they may take steps toward your light. may your presence and grace bring comfort, as you inspire them to choose what is right an